The History of Center City

The roots of Charlotte are in commerce: the city was born in the mid-1700's at the intersection of two Native American trading trails. Our founders had big dreams; they built their courthouse in the middle of our town square on spec, with the belief it would help our chances of becoming the County seat. That can-do spirit paid off and continues to this day.

Business leaders, Center City residents and city government formed the Uptown Development Corporation in 1979. In 1997, we merged with the CDC, expanded our mission to include more marketing and events production and changed our name to Charlotte Center City Partners. In July 2004, Historic South End merged into Charlotte Center City Partners.

The organization is funded primarily by a municipal service district levy assessed to property owners in the Center City. Our service offerings include planning and development, business recruitment, research, marketing, communications and media relations, programs and events, neighborhood support, advocacy and transportation management. Our mission is to facilitate and promote the economic, cultural and residential development of the urban core.